Live like a lord and lady on this tour as you will be staying in some of Ireland’s finest luxury castles and manor hotels. Take in some of Ireland’s most romantic scenery with a stay at Lyrath Estate in Kilkenny, Ballyseede Castle in Kerry and enjoy the hustle and bustle of our vibrant capital city of Dublin.

The Irish Castles & Manors Tours are sure to leave you with wonderful memories of your vacation in Ireland, as you will also visit many of Ireland’s most historical locations and attractions. After exploring the stunning scenery by day, in the evening you will relax in luxurious accommodation fit for royalty!

Our Irish Castle and Manors Self Drive vacation in Ireland is ideal for your Ireland Honeymoon , talk to one of our vacation specialists for more information. Alternatively if you are looking for guided tours - contact us and find out about our group vacations in Ireland, escorted coach tours Ireland and Ireland chauffeur tours.

Booking

Upon arriving in Dublin Airport and after collecting your Hertz rental car it is time to take the short journey to Cashel in County Tipperary. Your first stop is The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens in Kildare Town. The National Stud comprises three separate attractions. The 1,000 acre Farm at Tully has been in use as a Stud Farm since 1900 when it was owned by Col. William Hall-Walker. It is home to some of Ireland's finest thoroughbreds. There's a Horse Museum tracing the history of the horse in Ireland using artifacts as well as the Japanese Gardens which are located on the grounds of the Stud Farm and were created between 1906 and 1910.

The last leg of today’s journey brings you to the Rock of Cashel in the County of Tipperary and it has been in use since the fourth century. Because of its height and the fact that the surrounding land of Tipperary can be seen for miles, this made it an ideal fortress to defend against its enemies and was the perfect seat for the greatest of Ireland’s High Kings, Brian Boru. This site is also strongly associated with St. Patrick in the 5th century. In the evening time, stroll the streets of this quaint small town and interact with the friendly locals while you enjoy the local pubs.

Day 2 – While in Cashel, County Tipperary

There are a number of day trips to be experienced from Cashel and all within easy reach. These include a trip to the small City of Kilkenny. Long renowned as Ireland’s Medieval Capital, the city’s origins date back more than 1,500 years. Characterized by beautifully restored old buildings, Kilkenny City is small and compact enough to explore on foot, yet full of fascinating, historical buildings. Kilkenny Castle is a 12th century castle remodelled in Victorian times and set in extensive parklands. Also in Kilkenny is Saint Canice's Cathedral, the second longest of Ireland's medieval cathedrals. Built on the site of an earlier church, the major portion of the work that produced the beautiful Gothic structure was carried out in the middle of the 13th Century. We highly recommend you visit the 300 year old Smithwick’s Brewery which stands on the site of the old St. Francis Abbey. You can then travel onwards to Waterford where you will see the Waterford Crystal factory.

Day 3 – Cashel to Ballyseede, County Kerry

This morning time, you will be travelling from Cashel to the Kingdom of Kerry in Irelands spectacular South West. First stop is Cahir Castle, once an important stronghold of the powerful Butler family, which retains its impressive keep, tower and much of its original defensive structure. It is one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved castles. For those who wish to have an early start and take a slightly longer route to Killarney, Blarney Castle and the ‘Gift of Eloquence’ awaits. Onwards to Killarney. With its three famous lakes and majestic mountain ranges, Killarney has been the inspiration of poets and painters over many centuries. The Killarney National Park is internationally renowned both for its scenic beauty and scientific interest. There are many walks and trails around Killarney including a 2-hour tourist trail around the town itself. You will also have a chance to visit Ross Castle, the Gap of Dunloe with the Black Valley. From here, travel north to Ballyseede Castle just outside the town of Tralee where you will be spending the next 2 nights.

Day 4 – Ring of Kerry/Dingle Peninsula

Today choose to simply relax in Ballyseede Castle and the nearby town of Tralee or take on a days touring of either the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula to the west. While the Dingle Peninsula is the shorter drive and is graced with more interesting antiquities, historic sites and varied mountain scenery than any other part of Ireland, the Ring of Kerry includes the stunning views over the lakes of Killarney from Moll’s Gap as well as numerous colourful villages on this route. Not for the faint-hearted, you will remember this mountain pass drive forever.

The Dingle route includes visits to the lovely fishing town of Dingle and beyond to Dunbeag Promontory Fort, an archaeological site on the from the late Bronze Age, 800 BC. Continue on to Slea Head and here you will see DunAn Oir (Fort of Gold). Nearby is the Gallarus Oratory, one of the best preserved early Christian church buildings in Ireland. Back to Tralee town where you can relax in the luxurious surrounds of Ballyseede Castle.

Day 5 – To Adare, Bunratty and the Cliffs of Moher

One of the most dramatic days of your tour brings you to the west coast of County Clare. First stop will be the Village of Adare in County Limerick. Adare is regarded by many a seasoned traveller as Ireland’s prettiest village with its charming thatched cottages, manicured public park and ancient church. From Adare village continue towards Limerick City of ‘Angela’s Ashes’ fame and home to King Johns Castle. Shortly after this, you arrive at Bunratty Castle. Built in 1425, this majestic castle was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour. Within the grounds of the Castle is Bunratty Folk Park where 19th century Irish life is vividly recreated. Continuing on to the magnificent ‘Cliffs of Moher’. The majestic Cliffs of Moher are without doubt one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights and overlook the Atlantic Ocean on the coast of West Clare. You then arrive at the village of Doolin. Doolin is world-famous for its wealth of Irish folk music and in recent years has been attracting crowds to spontaneous sessions in any one of its excellent pubs. Just north of the Cliffs you then have the lunar like Burren region and the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen Tombs. Make sure to take the guided tour led by the hotels owner of the 15th century Castle ruins that sits next to Ballinalacken House and don’t forget to bring your camera.

Day 6 – Ferry trip to Aran Islands

Drive the short distance to Doolin pier and take the ferry to the Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Aran will take you back to an Ireland of Celts and Early Christians. Take a pony and trap, or a guided tour from the pier up the island to the stone fort of Dun Aonghus. The fort is located on top of a 300 foot high sea cliff and is one of the finest prehistoric monuments in Western Europe.

For whatever reason, should you prefer not to take the ferry to the islands, then perhaps take a stunning cliff walk high above the Atlantic with stunning views of the Burren and Aran Islands.

Travel to the lunar like Burren Region and the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen Tombs. Also on route, you will have a chance to visit Dunguaire which was built in 1520 by the O'Hynes clan on the picturesque shores of Galway Bay. This evening, travel the short distance to Doolin or Lisdoonvarna to enjoy the best of traditional Irish music in one of the many excellent pubs.

Day 7 – To Ballynahinch Castle in Connemara, County Galway.

Today we travel to the University City of Galway and on to the Connemara region west of Galway. You will also have the chance to stop in Galway city, the ‘City of the Tribes’ is also known as Ireland’s Cultural and festival capital. With its street entertainers and traditional pubs with great music, Galway and in particular, the Quays area of the city centre will enthrall you particularly in the evening time. Other sites in Galway include Ireland’s largest medieval parish church, the Collegiate Church of St Nicholas of Myra dating back to 1320. Christopher Columbus reputedly worshipped in this church in 1477. Also nearby are Galway Cathedral, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square. Continue west of Galway to the hauntingly beautiful Connemara Region. Situated on the most western seaboard of Europe, this unspoilt region boasts breathtaking scenery. The characteristic features of Connemara include its rugged, unpolluted coastline, dramatic mountains, numerous lakes and rivers and woodlands and the renowned Connemara National Park. Visit Kylemore Abbey and the Lough Inagh Valley as well as the spectacular Sky Road near the town of Clifden. You can also visit the fishing village of Roundstone and see how a ‘Bodhran’ (traditional Irish Drum) is made.

Day 8 – While in Ballynahinch Castle in Connemara, County Galway.

You may wish to simply relax at the castle today and perhaps take in one of the lovely walks near the castle. Depending on the season, you can decide to take advantage of the services of the expert ghillies that the Castle can arrange for beginners to experts as this castle is a member of the ‘Great Fishing Houses of Ireland’.

Alternatively, you can continue to explore the region. Visit the National Park to the west and the provincial town of Clifden. If horse-riding is your preferred activity, make sure to ask your advisor and they will arrange this for you,

Day 9 – To Dublin via Historic Meath

Todays journey brings you east to our capital city of Dublin. A slight detour will also allow you a visit to the megalithic tombs of Newgrange. One of the great wonders of the ancient world, Newgrange is older than Stonehenge, Mycenae or even the Pyramids of Egypt and is foremost among the passage-tombs of Europe. Also in this area are the Hill of Tara (seat of Ireland’s ancient High Kings) and Trim castle.

Depending on whether you took any detours earlier, you may have time to shop or sightsee in Dublin City. Close to your hotel are many of the city’s most historic attractions including The Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, Dublin Castle and the National History Museum.

Day 10 – In Dublin

Using the Hop-on Hop-off Bus ticket we provide, you will be able to visit many of Dublin’s most renowned and historical locations. Amongst other sites, you will see the Guinness Storehouse, the National Museum of Art and the historic Kilmainham Gaol where all of the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were executed. For a more light hearted experience, maybe a visit to the Irish Leprechaun Museum would be worth taking in. In the evening, there are many great Irish plays on in Dublin if that is to your taste. Of course, the authentic Dublin pub is an experience in itself and Dublin pub or literary tours are also freely available.

In the evening you will attend the Irish House Party. The Irish House Party is completely unique in Dublin. Unlike any other traditional Irish music night in the city, it is organised and hosted by All-Ireland Champion traditional Irish musicians and dancers in an intimate and homely setting.

Day 11 – Homeward Bound
Regrettably, this morning it is time to leave for the airport unless of course you are one of the lucky ones who has planned post night stays in Dublin or Belfast City.

Accommodation Options (10 Night Tour)

2 Nights in Bailey’s Hotel, Cashel, Tipperary

2 Nights Ballyseede Castle Kerry

2 Nights Ballinalacken House Clare

2 Nights Ballynahinch Castle in Connemara West of Ireland

2 Nights Dublin City

Day 1 – Dublin Airport to Kilkenny

Upon your arrival (Dublin Airport) collect your Hertz Car Rental and your Castle’s and Manor Tour of Ireland will commence. Your first day’s drive is a short one, bringing you to the Southeast Ireland from Dublin to Kilkenny.

Your first stop is the National Stud and Japanese Gardens where you can visit a Horse Museum tracing the history of the horse in Ireland. In fact the winner of the 2003 Californian ‘Breeders Cup Mile’ race is a National Stud horse, the 3rd in the last 9 years. The Japanese Gardens are located in the grounds of the Stud Farm and were created between 1906 and 1910. They were designed to symbolise the 'Life of Man' from the cradle to the grave. On to Kilkenny city- which has been long renowned as Ireland’s Medieval Capital. The popular city’s origins date back more than 1,500 years. Kilkenny Castle is a 12th century castle remodelled in Victorian times and set in extensive parklands. Also located in Kilkenny is Saint Canice's Cathedral, built on the site of an earlier church, the major work was carried out in the 13th Century. As part of this tour, tickets for the ‘Smithwick’s Experience’ are also included. This famous Irish Ale was first produced in Kilkenny by monks in 1231 and this tour culminates with a pint of this now world renowned Ale.

Day 2 – Kilkenny to Ballyseede, County Kerry

This morning, travel from Kilkenny to the Kingdom of Kerry in Irelands spectacular South West. Your first stop is the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary. Cashel was once the seat of the Kings of Munster and capital of this southern province. Kings of Ireland as well as Munster came to this spot and St. Patrick is known to have preached and converted the local King, Aenghus, here in the 5th Century. Next you will visit Cahir Castle. Cahir Castle was once an important stronghold of the powerful Butler family, it is one of Ireland’s best-preserved castles. Next you will venure on to Killarney. With its three famous lakes and majestic mountain ranges, The Killarney National Park is renowned both for its scenic beauty and scientific interest. There are many walks and trails around Killarney including a 2-hour tourist trail around the town itself. You will also have a chance to visit Ross Castle, the Gap of Dunloe with the Black Valley. From here, travel north to Ballyseede Castle just outside of Tralee where you will be spending 2 nights.

Day 3 – Ring of Kerry/Dingle Peninsula

Today you may choose to relax in Ballyseede Castle and the nearby town of Tralee or take in a days touring of either the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula to the west of Kerry. While the Dingle Peninsula is the shorter drive and is graced with more interesting antiquities, historic sites and varied mountain scenery than any other part of Ireland, the Ring of Kerry includes spectacular views over the lakes of Killarney from Moll’s Gap as well as numerous colourful villages on this route. Not for the faint-hearted, you will remember this mountain pass drive forever.

The Dingle route includes visits to the lovely fishing town of Dingle and beyond to Dunbeag Promontory Fort, an archaeological site on the from the late Bronze Age, 800 BC. Next continue your journey on to Slea Head and here you will see DunAn Oir (Fort of Gold). Here in 1580, after a three day siege, over 600 Irish and Spanish soldiers surrendered to Lord Grey only to be massacred by his troops. Nearby is the Gallarus Oratory, which is one of the best preserved early Christian churches in Ireland. Back to Tralee town where you can relax in the luxurious surroundings of Ballyseede Castle.

Day 4 – To Adare, Bunratty and the Cliffs of Moher

Today's tour brings you to the west coast of County Clare. First stop will be the popular Village of Adare in County Limerick. Adare is regarded by many a seasoned traveller as Ireland’s prettiest village with charming thatched cottages, manicured public park and ancient church. From Adare continue towards Limerick City of ‘Angela’s Ashes’ fame and home to King Johns Castle. Shortly after this drive, you arrive at Bunratty Castle. Built in 1425, the castle was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour. Within the grounds of the Castle is Bunratty Folk Park where 19th century Irish life is vividly recreated. Continuing on to the magnificent ‘Cliffs of Moher’. The majestic Cliffs of Moher are without doubt one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights and overlook the Atlantic Ocean. You then arrive at the village of Doolin. Doolin is famous for its wealth of Irish folk music. Just north of the Cliffs Of Moheryou then have the lunar like Burren region and the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen Tombs.

Day 5 – Ferry trip to Aran Islands

Drive to Doolin pier and take the ferry to the Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Aran will take you back to an Ireland of Celts and Early Christians. Take a pony and trap, or a guided tour from the pier up the island to the stone fort of Dun Aonghus. The fort is situated on top of a 300ft high sea cliff and is one of the finest prehistoric monuments in Europe.

For whatever reason, should you prefer not to take the ferry to the islands, then perhaps take a stunning cliff walk high above the Atlantic Ocean with stunning views of the Burren and Aran Islands.

Travel to the lunar like Burren Region and the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen Tombs. Also on route, you will have a chance to visit Dunguaire which was built in 1520 by the O'Hynes clan on the shores of Galway Bay. This evening, travel the short distance to Doolin village or Lisdoonvarna to enjoy the best of traditional Irish music in one of the many excellent pubs.

Day 6 – To Dublin via Historic Meath

Today’s tour brings you east to our capital city of Dublin. A slight detour will also allow you a visit to the megalithic tombs of Newgrange. One of the great wonders of the ancient world, Newgrange is older than Stonehenge, Mycenae or even the Pyramids of Egypt and is foremost among the passage-tombs of Europe. Also in this area are the Hill of Tara (seat of Ireland’s ancient High Kings) and Trim castle, featured in the famous movie ‘Braveheart’.

Depending on whether you took any detours earlier, you may have time to shop or sightsee in Dublin City Centre. Close to your hotel are many of the city’s most historic attractions including Dublin Castle, The Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and the National History Museum.

Day 7 – In Dublin

Using the Hop-on Hop-off Bus ticket we provided you, in Dublin you will be able to visit many of Dublin’s most renowned and historical locations. Amongst other sites, you will see the Guinness Storehouse, the National Museum of Art and the historic Kilmainham Gaol. For a more light hearted experience, maybe a visit to the Irish Leprechaun Museum would be worth taking in. In the evening, there are many great Irish plays on in Dublin if that is to your taste. Of course, the authentic Dublin pub or literary tours are also freely available.

In the evening you will attend the Irish House Party. The Irish House Party is unique in Dublin. Unlike any other traditional Irish music night in the city, it is organised and hosted by All-Ireland Champion traditional Irish musicians and dancers in an intimate and homely setting.

Day 8 – Homeward Bound
Regrettably, this morning it is time to leave for the airport unless you are one of the lucky ones who has planned post night stays in Dublin or Belfast City.

Accommodation Options (7 Night Tour)

1 Night at Lyrath Estate in Kilkenny

2 Night at Ballyseede Castle in Kerry

2 Nights on Ballinalacken House in Clare

2 Nights in Ashling Hotel in Dublin City Centre

Day 1 – Dublin Airport to Wicklow

Whe you arrive into Dublin Airport it’s time collect your Hertz Car Rental and start your Castle’s and Manor Tour of Ireland. Taking into account your long overnight flight, your first day’s drive is a short one, bringing you south of Dublin City to Wicklow, the Garden County of Ireland.

Wicklow is home to many of Ireland’s most historic attractions. Take time today to visit the popular Powerscourt House and Gardens

Your first stop will be Powerscourt House & Gardens. an 18th Century Palladian House in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, you will find a sublime blend of formal gardens and ornamental lakes together with secret hollows, rambling walks and over 200 varieties of trees and shrubs. Next on to the ancient monastic settlement at Glendalough. Glendalough is a truly majestic place - an ancient monastic settlement and two clear water lakes beneath the sheer cliffs of a deep valley, which was carved out by glaciers during the Ice Age. The monastic settlement was established by Saint Kevin in the 6th century. From here, follow the signs for Avondale House. Built in 1779 Avondale House is set in the spectacular surroundings of Avondale Forest Park, which is now a museum to the memory of one of the greatest political leaders of modern Irish history, Charles Stewart Parnell. Next to you travel to Avoca where you can take the Avoca Handweavers factory tour, famed worldwide for the quality of its woven fabrics.

Day 2 – Wicklow to Cashel, County Tipperary

Today you will cross the sheep strewn Wicklow Mountains to Kilkenny, also known as the ‘Marble City’. As well as being the most successful county in Ireland’s national sport of ‘Hurling’, Kilkenny City is home to such historic sites as St. Canice’s Cathedral and Kilkenny Castle. As part of this tour, tickets for the ‘Smithwick’s Experience’ are included. This famous Irish Ale was produced in Kilkenny by monks in 1231 and this atmospheric tour culminates with a pint of this now world renowned Ale.

The last leg of today’s journey brings you to the Rock of Cashel in the County of Tipperary. which stands for Strong Fort, and it has been in use since the fourth century. Because of the castle's height and the fact that the surrounding land of Tipperary can be seen for miles, this made it an ideal fortress to defend against enemies and it was the perfect seat for the greatest of Ireland’s High Kings, Brian Boru. This site is also strongly associated with St. Patrick in the 5th century. In the evening time, stroll the streets and interact with the friendly locals while you enjoy the local pubs and cafes.

Day 3 – Cashel to Ballyseede, County Kerry

This morning, you will travel from Cashel to the Kingdom of Kerry in Irelands spectacular South West. First stop is Cahir Castle. It is one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved castles. For those who wish to have an early start and take a slightly longer route to Killarney, Blarney Castle and the ‘Gift of Eloquence’ awaits. Onwards to Killarney. With its three famous lakes and majestic mountain ranges, Killarney has been the inspiration of poets and painters over many centuries. The Killarney National Park is renowned both for its scenic beauty and scientific interest. There are many walks and trails around Killarney town including a 2-hour tourist trail around the town itself. You will also have a chance to visit Ross Castle, the Gap of Dunloe with the Black Valley. From here, travel north to Ballyseede Castle just outside the town of Tralee where you will be spending 2 nights.

Day 4 – Ring of Kerry/Dingle Peninsula

Today you may choose to simply relax in Ballyseede Castle and the nearby town of Tralee or take on a days touring of either the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula. While the Dingle Peninsula is the shorter drive and is graced with more interesting antiquities, historic sites and varied mountain scenery than any other part of Ireland, the Ring of Kerry includes the spectacular views over the lakes of Killarney from Moll’s Gap as well as the colourful villages on this route. Not for the faint-hearted, you will remember this mountain pass.

The Dingle route includes visits to the lovely town of Dingle and beyond to Dunbeag Promontory Fort, an archaeological site on the from the late Bronze Age, 800 BC. Continue on to Slea Head and here you will see DunAn Oir (Fort of Gold). Here in 1580, after three days siege, over 600 Irish and Spanish soldiers surrendered to Lord Grey only to be massacred by his troops. Nearby is the Gallarus Oratory, one of the best preserved early Christian churches in Ireland. Back to the town of Tralee to relax in the luxurious surrounds of Ballyseede Castle.

Day 5 – To Adare, Bunratty and the Cliffs of Moher

One of the most dramatic days of your tour brings you to the west coast of County Clare. First stop will be the Village of Adare in County Limerick. Adare is regarded by many a seasoned traveller as Ireland’s prettiest village with its charming thatched cottages, manicured public park and ancient church. From Adare town continue towards Limerick City of ‘Angela’s Ashes’ fame and home to King Johns Castle. Shortly after this, you arrive at Bunratty Castle. Built in 1425, this majestic castle was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour. Within the grounds of the Castle is Bunratty Folk Park where 19th century Irish life is recreated. Continuing on to the magnificent ‘Cliffs of Moher’. The majestic Cliffs of Moher are without doubt Ireland’s most wonderous sights and overlook the Atlantic Ocean on the coast of West Clare. You then arrive at the village of Doolin. Doolin is world-famous for its wealth of Irish folk music and in recent years has been attracting people to spontaneous sessions in any one of its excellent pubs. Just north of the Cliffs of Moher you then have the lunar like Burren region and the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen Tombs. Make sure to take the tour led by the hotels owner of the 15th century Castle ruins that sits next to Ballinalacken House and don’t forget to bring your camera.

Day 6 – Ferry trip to Aran Islands

Drive the short distance to Doolin pier and take the ferry to the Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Aran will take you back to an Ireland of Celts and Early Christians. Take a pony and trap, or a guided tour from the pier up the island to the stone fort of Dun Aonghus. The fort is located on top of a 300ft high sea cliff and is one of the finest prehistoric monuments in Western Europe.

For whatever reason, should you prefer not to take the ferry to the islands, then Galway city is just an hour’s drive to the north.

Travel to the university city of Galway via the lunar like Burren Region and the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen Tombs. Also on route, you will have a chance to visit Dunguaire which was built in 1520 by the O'Hynes clan on the picturesque shores of Galway Bay. Galway, the ‘City of the Tribes’ is also known as Ireland’s Cultural and festival capital. With its street entertainers and traditional pubs with great music, Galway and in particular, the Quays area of the city centre will enthrall you particularly in the evening time. Other sites in Galway include Ireland’s largest medieval parish church, the Collegiate Church of St Nicholas of Myra dating back to 1320. Christopher Columbus reputedly worshipped in this church in 1477. Also nearby are Galway Cathedral, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square. This evening, travel the short distance to Doolin or Lisdoonvarna to enjoy the best of traditional Irish music in one of the many excellent pubs.

Day 7 – To Historic Meath and Bellingham Castle.

Today’s journey brings you to Bellingham Castle just 40 minutes north of Dublin Airport and includes a number of Ireland’s most historic and visited locations. First of these is the ancient monastic settlement at Clonmacnoise. This is an early Christian site founded by Saint Ciaran in the 6th century on the banks of the River Shannon and includes the ruins of a cathedral, eight, two round towers, three high crosses and a large collection of early Christian grave slabs. From here, we travel the megalithic tombs of Newgrange. One of the great wonders of the ancient world, Newgrange is older than Stonehenge, Mycenae or even the Pyramids of Egypt and is foremost among the passage-tombs of Europe. Also in this area are the Hill of Tara (seat of Ireland’s ancient High Kings) and Trim castle, featured in the Mel Gibson movie ‘Braveheart’.

If you arrive early enough, you may wish to have afternoon tea in the Castle.

Day 8 – Dublin/Belfast or North Antrim Coast

Relax in your luxurious Castle surroundings or travel to any one of a number of intriguing destinations. Spend the day in Dublin City seeing the best the capital has to offer including the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and the Book of Kells and if possible historic Kilmainham Gaol.

Alternatively travel the short journey north from the Castle to Belfast City in Northern Ireland. The world's largest dry dock is here, testament to the building of the Titanic here. Take one of the cities famed Black Cab Tours and let your experienced, impartial and friendly driver acquaint you with the social and political history & culture of Belfast. Well worth a visit is the new Titanic Exhibition and the Cathedral Quarter.

If you prefer to leave out the cities on your last full day, bypass Belfast and head north to the beautiful Glens of Antrim dotted with quaint villages. From here, make sure to walk the stunning Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge which spans a gaping chasm between the coast and a small island used by fishermen. From here travel to the Giant’s Causeway. The Causeway was formed 70,000,000 years ago by massive volcanic activity is contradicted only by local legend. After the Causeway, travel to the nearby Dunluce Castle. This spectacular castle was shaped when the sea cut deep into the land, exploiting cracks in either side of the rock. The early Christians and the Vikings were drawn to this romantic place and an early Irish fort once stood here.

Day 9 – Homeward Bound
Regrettably, this morning it is time to leave for the airport unless of course you are one of the lucky ones who has planned post night stays in Dublin.